University of California—San Diego (UCSD)

University of California-San Diego is widely recognized as "one of the top science universities in the United States." In addition to its strong STEM programs, UC San Diego offers students more than 100 degrees and programs across various disciplines. Many students choose UC San Diego for its "access to cutting-edge technology and theories" and the "great opportunities for undergraduates to do research." Professors here "are incredibly knowledgeable about their material, and many of them are actively doing research in their field." Students find the faculty "very helpful and willing to take extra time to help students understand material," and some professors will "mentor students if you seek them out." The university is organized into eight colleges, which help students navigate the complexities of a large institution, allowing them to feel less "like a small fish in a huge ocean." This system fosters a sense of belonging and ensures individual attention while still giving students all of the benefits of a large institution: "a lot of resources," along with supportive organizations and faculty "that will help you achieve what you want." If UC San Diego sounds like an ideal school, its students agree that "this university will undoubtedly set the new standard of what it means to be an elite public university in the years to come."

At UC San Diego, the student body "has such a diverse range of personalities" that it's easy for newcomers to find their niche. While many people might picture a typical UC San Diego student as someone who "studies a lot," there are "plenty of students who balance academics with other things, like sports or clubs." However, "doing well academically at UC San Diego is an extreme priority, even to students who are not good students," and "most of the students are geared toward extended education or professional school." Regardless of your career trajectory, almost anyone "can fit in here because it's such a big school, and there are so many different organizations and places where you can find people that enjoy the same things as you."

UC San Diego students have plenty of options for staying busy, engaged, and entertained. "There is always an event going on and so many clubs to be involved in." Students also love UC San Diego's "unbeatable location," which is just 10 minutes from the beach. It's easy to enjoy "all the nature around the campus by hiking, biking, [or] camping," and students can even take surf lessons "for a modest fee." On campus, students are provided with "tons of resources and ways to get involved," and many "play sports or participate in clubs." The campus boasts a state-of-the-art athletic training center, 10 different athletic venues, gardens where students can grow their own vegetables and herbs, and many other attractions. Each spring, the Sun God Festival, a music and arts celebration put on by students, is "always a popular event." In addition to on-campus activities and events, students appreciate the close proximity to downtown, noting that it's "super easy to get to San Diego proper for a fun night out." For many students, the academic rigor of the school keeps social activities in check. "Lots of people enjoy...small parties, but the party scene isn't too big here." One student happily observes: "From the Greek life to the intramural sports to the variety of clubs, there is literally a place for everyone."

Professional success is practically synonymous with UCSD. Indeed, according to PayScale.com, the median starting salary for San Diego grads is $65,000. Students looking to jumpstart their search can easily turn to the Career Center. Here undergrads have the opportunity to meet with advisors to explore the breadth of career options, conduct assessments and research various industries. Most importantly, the Center hosts job fairs and networking events every quarter. These present great opportunities for undergrads to learn about internships, part-time gigs and full-time positions. Companies that have recently attended include Amazon, Boeing, Apple, Chevron Corporation, California State Auditor, Hulu, Groupon, Intel Corporation, and the Peace Corps.